Washington / Kitsap County

Moving to Seattle, WA

Thinking of making a move to Seattle, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Seattle, WA

Considering a move to Seattle, WA? This welcoming community of 749,256 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $850,000 and average rents near $2,200. Commute times average 28 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (43% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Seattle's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Seattle, WA

Seattle has a population of 749,256 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 35 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 63% White, 7% Black, and 17% Asian residents, and over 23% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
749,256
Density
9,400 per sq mi
Median Age
35.2
Gender Ratio
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
22.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
62.5%
Black
7.1%
Asian
16.8%
Others
13.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Seattle, WA?

The cost of living in Seattle is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 172.3. Median home values are around $850,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $2,200. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$850,000
Gross Rent
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges
$95
Auto Insurance
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$950
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 9.0% (sales tax)
Cost Of Living Index
172.3
Grocery
116.5
Housing
243.0
Utilities
87.1
Transportation
137.2
Health Care
120.4
Miscellaneous
111.8

Crime

Is Seattle, WA a safe place to live?

Seattle is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 673 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 18. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
673
Property Crimes Per 100k
5,421
Crime Index
6,094
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 149
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 18

Weather

What is the weather like in Seattle, WA year-round?

Seattle experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 76°F and cold winters dipping to 37°F. The area receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 43% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
37°F
Max
48°F

Summer

Min
56°F
Max
76°F

Spring

Min
45°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
47°F
Max
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches
38.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
43%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $110,800 and a low poverty rate of 10.0%. Over 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 64% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 28 minutes, and almost 20% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$61,000
Household Income
$110,800
Family Income
$141,200
Per Capita Income
$67,700
Income Male
$75,300
Income Female
$62,900
Poverty Rate
10.0%
Non English Speakers
22.5%
Rent
$2,200
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
Public Transport Usage
20.2%
Commute Time
27.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
94.7%
Bachelors or More
63.7%

Education

How are the schools in Seattle, WA?

Seattle offers quality education options, with public schools like Garfield High School and Hamilton International Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Washington and Seattle University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Garfield High School
Street
400 23rd Ave
Phone
206-252-2270
Students
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio
21.5
Name
Hamilton International Middle School
Street
1610 N 41st St
Phone
206-252-5810
Students
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio
18.5

Private Schools

Name
Seattle Preparatory School
Street
2400 11th Ave E
Phone
206-324-0400
Students
750

Colleges

Name
University of Washington
City
Seattle
State
WA
Distance
0 miles
Students
48,000
Name
Seattle University
City
Seattle
State
WA
Distance
0 miles
Students
7,200

Healthcare

Seattle residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 3.7 per 1,000 people and 95.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
UW Medical Center
Address
1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195
Phone
(206) 598-3300
Type
Teaching, General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Harborview Medical Center
Address
325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Phone
(206) 744-3000
Type
General & Trauma Center
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
3.7
Health Insurance Coverage
95.8%
Health Care Index
79.3

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Seattle, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $850,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 45%. The market has seen a 4.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 5.8%. Seattle offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$850,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate
45.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.3%
New Construction Rate
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Seattle handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Olympia. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Phone
360-902-3900

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Seattle, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Seattle, review the core fields on this page: population 749,256, median home value $850,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $2,200, commute time 27.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 43%.

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